DIY faux headboard

Quiet palette

The quiet palette of the master bedroom in this Indiana home gains interest from texture, design details and art. Belgian linen layers on the bed. “I love the texture of linen, the feel of linen and the sheen of linen,” the homeowner says. “I even love that it wrinkles and doesn’t feel perfect.”

Quirky modern

Find a clever way to display a favorite collection -- like placing vintage handbags on individual box shelves above a bed. The handbags become unique, colorful art in this playful, contemporary bedroom, complete with a platform bed on wheels. A checked bedspread echoes the box shelves.

Bunkhouse charm

Garden delight

Create a light and cheerful mood in a bedroom with whites, blues and greens. An oversize, stylized floral wallpaper on just one wall (Paper Roses in White/Sky from Lee Jofa) gives the room a touch of garden-inspired whimsy. Wallpaper on all four walls would be overkill. Sage-green pillows add contrast to the white matelasse coverlet and shams and blue-and-white checked quilt.

Bold and beachy

New country

Mix in a pinch of modern for a fresh take on country style that stays true to its roots. Here, ticking- and quilt-patterned pillows mix easily with a modern silk coverlet and a contemporary floral-print sheet set.

Eclectic flair

A mix of exotic accents, including a faux-zebra rug, leopard-print pillows and crocodile-look leather ottomans, give this bedroom a modern look/feel. A warm brown hue on the walls (Benjamin Moore 2096-30 Chocolate Truffle) looks rich and pairs well with rust and cream accents.

Small-space style

For small or challenging spaces (bedrooms with pitched and low ceilings), try low platform beds, like the one tucked under the slant here. Add wall shelves for extra storage and a display area for art.

Farmhouse cheer

Make guests feel like they're visiting Grandma's house with a comfortable room inspired by country style. The chandelier complements the white iron bed. Layers of quilts, a floral bed ruffle and an embroidered pillow recall simpler times.

Transitional bedroom

Shades of black, white and brown-gray create a classic yet modern bedroom. A suede upholstered headboard with a black platform base is an updated take on a traditional bed. Chunky white molding and streamlined accessories maintain the sleek look.

Secret garden

A green-and-white palette with hints of pink and blue makes this bedroom feel as if you're stepping into a spring garden. Plain white walls keep the focus on the colors of the bedding and upholstery. A large bay window fills the room with light and is the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee.

Elegantly simple

Loving blue

Love all things blue and white? Then this bedroom is for you. Blue walls and white trim set the stage, but the real charm comes from the mix of patterns and shades of periwinkle. A solid comforter keeps the combination of fabrics and colors from looking too busy. All the accessories -- from the lamps' blue-and-white shades to the blue-and-white rag rug --complement the scheme. Dark nightstands provide a bit of visual relief.

Play room

Double-duty furnishings

A daybed built into an inviting nook means a sitting room can double as a guest room. The window seat mimics the built-in bed and soaks up the morning sun. Wallpaper covers the ceiling as well as the walls, wrapping the room in color. A tailored valance and curtains lend a cheerful final note.